Role overview

Kepler Communications operates the first commercial optical data relay constellation with 33 satellites launched to date, providing real-time on-orbit connectivity for critical missions. As Program Chief Engineer, you serve as the senior technical authority and single point of technical accountability for the spacecraft program, reporting directly to the Senior Director of Satellite Systems and ensuring mission success through integrated system oversight.

Key responsibilities

Provide technical leadership across all engineering disciplines to ensure the spacecraft is designed, built, verified, and operated as an integrated system.
Establish technical direction and drive engineering execution across the spacecraft program.
Make timely technical decisions and conduct rigorous technical reviews with engineering teams, executive leadership, customers, and suppliers.
Maintain technical integrity and oversee engineering progress throughout all program phases.
Balance performance, reliability, cost, schedule, manufacturability, and mission risk to deliver flight-ready spacecraft.
Communicate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders to support mission objectives.
Ensure design maturity and enable successful mission execution through comprehensive technical oversight.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience as a senior technical authority or chief engineer on spacecraft or comparable complex aerospace programs.
Proven expertise in systems engineering and integrated system design across multiple engineering disciplines.
Strong track record of managing technical risk, balancing competing priorities, and driving engineering decisions in hardware-focused environments.
Excellent communication and leadership skills to engage effectively with engineering teams, executive leadership, customers, and suppliers.

What makes this role worth considering

You would join a team of bold thinkers and skilled builders at a company certified as a Great Place to Work for seven consecutive years. The role offers meaningful impact on the emerging space economy, competitive compensation with equity participation, comprehensive health coverage, unlimited vacation, and a $1,500 annual professional development fund to support your growth.